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Government of Canada Travel Advisory

Last Updated: October 04, 2016 5:43 EST1. RECENT UPDATESThe Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).2. ADVISORIESTurks and Caicos Islands - Exercise normal security precautionsThere is no nationwide advisory in effect for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Exercise normal security precautions.Travel Health Notice - Zika virusThe Public Health Agency of Canada has issued a Travel Health Notice for the Global Update: Zika virus infection recommending that Canadians practice special health precautions while travelling in affected countries. Pregnant women and those considering becoming pregnant should avoid travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands. See Health for more information.3. SECURITYCrimePetty crime occurs, including rental car theft. Muggings and armed assaults are also reported, mostly in areas popular with tourists. You should be especially vigilant on Providenciales, which has a higher crime rate than other islands. You should also exercise vigilance when staying at villas in secluded areas, as these may be seen by criminals as easy targets for theft. Victims of robbery may suffer injuries if they resist. Do not bring valuables, including travel documents and purses, to the beach. Avoid deserted beaches or other poorly lit, isolated areas after dark. Exercise normal precautions and ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times.If you plan to explore remote areas of the islands for bird watching, diving or snorkelling, inform friends, relatives or hotel management of the time of your expected return.Spiked food and drinksNever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.Road travelMain roads are generally in good condition. Be careful when driving after dark or on secondary roads, since unpaved surfaces, potholes and roaming animals may pose risks.Taxis are readily available; fares should be determined in advance.Air travelThe Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines' compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.4. ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTSIt is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the British authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the British High Commission or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.PassportCanadians must present valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or a notarized copy thereof) to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands, if travelling by direct flight from Canada. If you do not meet these three requirements, you will require a valid passport. Canadians must also be in possession of a return ticket.Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from the Turks and Caicos Islands by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more detailed information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency's website.Airlines have the right to refuse boarding to any passenger if they are not satisfied with the validity of the travel documents presented, regardless of the country's immigration entry rules. In order to avoid delays and other problems you should obtain a Canadian passport before initiating international travel and carry it for all visits outside Canada.Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.VisasTourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 daysBusiness visa: RequiredStudent visa: RequiredWork permit: RequiredAll travellers two years of age and older are required to pay an airport tax upon departure.Children and travelChildren need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.Yellow feverSee Health to obtain information on this country's vaccination requirements.5. HEALTHMedical services and facilitiesMedical facilities are limited. Grand Turk has a small public hospital, and Providenciales has a public hospital as well as a few private clinics. Severe cases are often referred to Nassau or Miami.6. LAWS AND CULTUREYou are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.Canada and United Kingdom are signatories to the European Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and British authorities.Driving lawsTraffic drives on the left.A valid Canadian driver's licence is required to rent a vehicle. Liability insurance is mandatory. An International Driving Permit is recommended. It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol.Illegal drugsPenalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.ImportsPrior permission by the Commissioner of Police is required to import firearms. Consult the Turks and Caicos Customs Department website for specific information.MarriagesIf planning to marry in the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensure that you meet all requirements and have all necessary documents before leaving Canada. Most countries require a certificate stating that there are no Canadian impediments to your marriage.InvestmentsIf you are interested in purchasing property or making other investments in the Turks and Caicos Islands, seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Turks and Caicos Islands before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.MoneyThe currency is the U.S. dollar (USD). Major hotels and shops accept credit cards.7. DISASTERS AND CLIMATEHurricane SeasonThe hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. The National Hurricane Center provides additional information on weather conditions. Stay informed of regional weather forecasts, and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

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